Can Hernia Recur After Surgery?

Posted on Tue, 11 Apr 2017

Question: I had a hernia on the left side repaired in 2006. Can it occur again? I was shoveling snow the other day, and I felt a pull on the left side. I have some soreness but no change in the area where it was repaired. How can I tell? Could it just be a muscle strain?
Thank you so much.

Answered by Dr. T Chandrakant (22 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Watch for the signs discussed below.

Detailed Answer:
Hi.
Thanks for your query.
Noted your concerns and understood the concerns.
As per the history this looks to be a strain.
Recurrence of hernia surely can occur.
But then there will be two classical things about it.:
- A swelling that pops on straining/coughing and
- Reducibility meaning reduction back to normal on lying down or on pressure.
Additionally there will be pain if of recent origin.
Confirmation is by the above two signs, examination by a Genera Surgeon and
By high resolution Ultrasound for the abdominal wall.

I hope this answers your query.
Please feel free to ask fr further relevant queries if you feel that there is gap of communication.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. T Chandrakant (56 minutes later)

Dear Dr. Chandrakant,
Thanks so much for your quick response. Your answer helps a lot. I'll keep an eye on it. There is some soreness in the area of the hernia repair. I'll let you know if it's not gone in a few days. Is there anything I should or shouldn't do?
Is it necessary to see my own doctor? I don't have a scheduled appointment. I usually go for a yearly check-up in September.

Thanks again,
XXXX

Answered by Dr. T Chandrakant (7 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Rest, Ibuprofen, examination.

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for your appreciation.
Please take rest till the soreness is settled - rest is the key.
May take Ibuprofen or any anti-inflammatory that suits you.
Watch for popping and reduction as discussed above.
It is always better to be examined and investigated by a Doctor/ General Surgeon preferably.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. T Chandrakant (6 minutes later)

Dear Dr. Chandrakant,
Thanks again for your response and your great advice - specific and clear. I'll let you know how it progresses in a few days.
I really appreciate your help. It really put my mind at ease.

Thank you,
XXXX

Answered by Dr. T Chandrakant (2 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Thanks for your appreciation.

Detailed Answer:
You are most welcome.
Awaiting for your feedback after a few days.
Shall be happy to assist you further anytime you require.

With Regards.

Note: For further inquiries on surgery procedure and its risks or complications book an appointment now

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar